Protesters in North Macedonia demand urgent action for clean air now

In November 2024, Delhi experienced the worst air pollution levels on record, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) peaking to an unprecedented 795 on November 18. This alarming spike in pollution is a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis that has afflicted the capital for years. The city's residents suffered from various health problems, including aggravated asthma, sore throats, and burning eyes, demonstrating the immediate impact of the toxic air. November proved to be the most polluted month in recent history, with consistent hazardous air quality levels. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was activated at Stage 3 on November 14, yet stricter Stage 4 measures were only enacted after the situation escalated, underscoring the government's delayed response to the health emergency. The issue of air pollution in Delhi is not new; past years have shown increasingly dire AQI levels during the winter months, with significant spikes consistently observed around Diwali. During Diwali 2024, the 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 330, higher than the previous three years, further emphasizing the trend of deteriorating air quality. The Supreme Court criticized the government for its inaction regarding the plan to control pollution, particularly regarding stubble burning in nearby states, which significantly contributes to the smog enveloping the capital. Residents have voiced concerns over the government's failure to implement proactive measures, viewing 2024 as a critical year that demands urgent reform and long-term solutions to prevent a repeat of such crises. On an international scale, North Macedonia has also seen its citizens protesting for better air quality, highlighting a shared global struggle against urban pollution. Protests in Skopje, the capital, revealed a similar narrative with residents demanding action to combat rampant air pollution that costs thousands of lives annually. This demonstrates that air pollution is a pressing issue worldwide, not just in Delhi, as many cities grapple with similar challenges due to decades of neglect in regulatory measures. As a result, citizens are now organizing to hold their governments accountable for their health and demand sustainable solutions to air quality problems. Overall, 2024's events are a wake-up call for both Delhi and the world to recognize the urgent need for decisive action against air pollution. Residents can no longer afford to wait for governments to react only after crises develop; prevention must become the priority to safeguard public health and ensure clean air for future generations.